Scale insects are a peculiar group and look quite different from the typical insects we encounter day to day. Small, immobile, with no visible legs or antennae, they resemble individual fish scales pressed tightly against the plant on which they are feeding. There are over l50 different kinds of scales in Virginia. Many are common and serious pests of trees, shrubs, and indoor plants.

Have you ever wondered if it is possible to enjoy the beauty
of bulbs in the middle of winter? The answer is definitely
yes! Many people are familiar with the hourglass-shaped
vase filled with water and topped with a hyacinth bulb,
or a low bowl filled with several Paper White narcissus,
and the popular boxed amaryllis bulb as a welcome winter
holiday gift. Most bulbs can be forced but additional
planning is required in order to have a successful period
of blooms.